If you have never had a cavity, you’re certainly in the minority. At some point in their lives, most people will need to have at least one cavity filling at their dentist’s office. To prepare you for this potential occurrence, we’ve put together a useful summary of everything you need to know about dental fillings.
Signs You May Need a Filling
Dental fillings are used to fill holes caused by decay in the teeth; they can be made of Ceramic or composite materials — both of which are safe for use in the human body.
Sometimes, you will not have any symptoms of tooth decay when the decay amount is minor enough. Over time, as the decay worsens, you may experience:
Pain and sensitivity in the tooth.
A visible dark spot or hole in the tooth.
A jagged feeling on the tooth.
The best way to find out if you need a filling is simply to see your dentist for an exam every six months. However, if you experience these symptoms in the interim, you should schedule an appointment.
What to Expect From a Filling
When you get a filling, your dentist will begin by injecting anaesthesia into the gums; this will numb the area of the tooth being worked on so you don’t feel any pain. Once this kicks in, the dentist will carefully remove the existing decay, and fill the cavity of the tooth with the filling material. Finally, the filling will be “cured” using a special light, which allows the material to set. The dentist may then reshape the filling to ensure it’s flush with the rest of the tooth, and you’ll be good to go!
The Importance of Filling Cavities
Having a cavity filled right away is important, as ignored tooth decay can eventually lead to the need for a root canal–or worse–tooth extraction or a painful abscess.
For more information on tooth decay or to schedule an appointment, contact us today!